Higan won 3 golds at 2025 USATKD Team Trials, made Team USA, medaled at US & American Opens, and participated in multiple community demos.
You decide who will be named Youth Athlete of the Year, featured in a 3BRAND ad in Sports Illustrated, and take home $25,000
Higan enjoys freestyle taekwondo because it lets him combine Poomsae, sparring, tricking, and tumbling into a dynamic 90-second routine set to music. He loves the freedom to perform creatively while meeting technical requirements. The support of the Taekwondo and Tricking communities motivates him to keep improving and expressing himself through his passion for the sport.
Jimmy Xiong inspires him because their stories mirror each other. They’re both Hmong-American from Fresno, started in taekwondo, then moved into tumbling and tricking. Jimmy, once one of California’s top trickers, taught him combos for his freestyle routines, introduced him to the Tricking community, and helped build his confidence and creativity on and off the mat.
My proudest moment of Higan was when he mastered the 1080 spinkick. In July 2024, he landed it at Nationals, stunning the Taekwondo community. He kept improving it—kicking at head level, spinning 1080 degrees, and landing cleanly. He later performed it flawlessly at the US Open and American Open West. His determination and perseverance continue to inspire me as he pushes himself to be his best in everything he does.
Vote for Higan to become the Youth Athlete of the Year while supporting two great causes! Cast your free daily vote below, or make an even bigger impact when you vote by donation—supporting the V Foundation for Cancer Research and Why Not You Foundation.
Colossal is a nationally registered professional fundraiser that inspires people to advocate for themselves and those in need. Through online competitions like Youth Athlete of the Year, Colossal offers participants the opportunity to make their mark while also making a big impact.
